Treatment of lower limb telangiectasias with Nd: Yag 1064 nm laser with and without tumescent anesthesia – TTL technique

Abstract

Introduction Transdermal laser is an option for varicous veins treatment, yet it may be painful. In this study, we will present a technique for performing tumescent anesthesia associated to transdermal laser (TTL) to reduce pain during treatment. Objective The study compares pain during treatment of telangiectasias in lower limb with and without tumescent anesthesia to offer a less painful procedure. Methods 50 CEAP C1 patients with bilateral telangiectasias on thighs underwent transdermal laser treatment, using tumescent anesthesia on one side and standard technique on the other. Pain was assessed via the Visual Analogue Scale. The outcomes were compared with Student's t-test. Significance was set at p < .05. Results Laser treatment without tumescent anesthesia resulted in a VAS pain score of 7.9, versus 0.0 with anesthesia, showing a significant statistical difference. Conclusion Tumescent anesthesia and transdermal laser (TTL) is capable of reducing pain in laser treatment of telangiectasias and reticular veins.